May 18-19, 2000

ITEM 107-1017-R0500  Resolution Concerning the Retirement of Fred McGlynn, Professor of Philosophy, College of Arts and Sciences; The University of Montana-Missoula

THAT: Fred McGlynn, Professor of Philosophy, in his years of dedicated service to The University of Montana, has merited the commendation of the Board of Regents of the Montana University System, and has earned the title of Professor of Philosophy Emeritus.

EXPLANATION: For more than a generation, Professor McGlynn has embodied the virtues that have made the Philosophy Department a wonderful place to learn and to teach. In 1985, Professor McGlynn received the Teacher of the Year Award, one of the first to do so. With his encyclopedic knowledge, his lively intelligence and theatre-trained voice, he has been among the stellar teachers of the University. His many-sided competence has led to countless appointments on M.A. thesis committees, ranging from Philosophy to English Literature, the Fine Arts, Drama, and Music.

Professor McGlynn's special area is the aesthetics of contemporary theater with special affection and attention focused on Samuel Beckett. But Professor McGlynn has not only thought and published about the theater, he has also been a consummate actor of astounding range and depth. He played leading parts in no fewer than five University of Montana productions.

A second area of affection and expertise on Professor McGlynn's part is music. Here, too, he is a practitioner as well as a theoretician. He is an accomplished trumpet player and has played in UM's Jazz Band for nine years and in the Missoula Symphonic Band since its inception eight years ago.

Professor McGlynn has been an active citizen and leader of The University of Montana's academic community. He has served on numerous committees, has been a member of the Senate for three terms and of the UTU Board for ten years, has guided the UTU in 1987-1988 and the Department in 1997-2000.

Excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service has become a tradition in the Philosophy Department in significant part due to Professor McGlynn. Most important, he has embodied the constructive and generous spirit that has lent the Department's academic excellence warmth and grace.

In recognition of his accomplishments and meritorious service, the Department of Philosophy recommends Professor Fred McGlynn for Emeritus status.